Harpeth Rising Releases New Album at Brevard Summer Concert Series

Chamberfolk: Three classically trained musicians playing original music, as intricately arranged as a string quartet, lyrically rooted in the singer/songwriter tradition, and wrapped in three-part vocal harmonies reminiscent of both Appalachia and Medieval Europe.

Building from the tonal depth of the cello (or is it a bass?), layer in the shimmering sounds of a violin and the strikingly natural addition of banjo to create a sound at once familiar and impossible to categorize. Unapologetic genre-benders, Harpeth Rising fuses Folk, Newgrass, Rock and Classical into something organically unique. The three musicians each hold classical performance degrees from some of the most venerated schools in the world: Indiana University, Oberlin, Eastman School of Music. Hallmarks of their music include expansive three-part harmonies, consummate musicianship and a deft, yet soulful, lyrical perspective.

Against All Tides, Harpeth Rising’s sophomore album as a trio, is proof that authenticity and complexity can live in harmony. It is an exploration of spirituality in place of fundamentalism, uncertainty as philosophy, and an unwavering declaration that human connection is the ultimate force for good in the universe. The songs, crafted lyrically by Jordana Greenberg and arranged by all three members of the trio – Maria Di Meglio, Michelle Younger and Greenberg – do not intend to distract from the social and political atmosphere. They are the vehicle by which the band has chosen to add their voices to the ongoing fight for understanding and respect. Two sets of lyrics – tracks 6 and 7 – come from David Greenberg, Jordana’s father, who has contributed work to every album the band has recorded, and who continues to be a source of inspiration. Track 8 is a cover of a Joan Baez song, – an indictment of the prison system and immigration laws – which heartbreakingly has fully retained its relevance in the 45 years since it was written. Altogether, they present a picture of determined optimism: Things are not as they should be, but we will push back, against all tides.

Their previous release, Shifted, debuted at No. 1 on the Folk-DJ charts, and gained them international exposure, leading to headlining slots at festivals including Kerrville Folk Festival (Texas), The National Folk Festival (Australia), Brevard Music Festival (North Carolina), Musicport Festival (England), and Costa Del Folk (Portugal).

Harpeth Rising will release their brand new CD at the Brevard Summer Outdoor Concert Series on Friday, June 23 at 7:30 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public. The show takes place at the library Amphitheater, Transylvania County Library, which is located at 212 S. Gaston St., Brevard, NC 28712. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will take place at the Rogow Room at the library. For more information, call 828-884-3151 ext 223, or visit www.library.transylvaniacounty.org.